Evolutionary biologist Professor Armand Leroi believes data science can transform the pop world. He gathers a team of scientists and researchers to analyse over 50 years of UK chart music. Can algorithms find the secret to pop success?  When the results are in, Armand teams up with hit producer Trevor Horn. Using machine-learning techniques, Armand and Trevor try to take a song by unsigned artist Nike Jemiyo and turn it into a potential chart-topper.

The Secret Science of Pop

The story of the 1968 album, The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society. After failing to chart upon release, it went on to become one of the most influential works in rock.